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TRAVEL
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to the magic of Parc Güell, it’s an essential part of the Barcelona experience. The unfinished Sagrada Familia is both beautiful and hideous with its molten waxlike figures and spires. Don’t miss La Pedrera, a Gaudi apartment block with a roof terrace.
WHEN TO GO: There are things happening all year round, but the weather is particularly pleasant in spring and autumn. CURRENCY: Euro. 1 GBP = 1.16 EUR. ACCOMMODATION: Dorm beds from €15 (£13). Private hotel rooms from €24 (£20). SEE: barcelonaturisme.com.
Tapas time Wander along the famous La Rambla boulevard, choc full of markets, cafes, stalls and colourful characters. It’s touristy but, nonetheless, something story-worthy is bound to happen as the famous street attracts a weird and wonderful selection of humanity.
You’ll see plenty of Gaudi architecture
Tapas time Eating small plates of Spanish delicacies is part of Spanish culture, and there are loads of tapas bars in Barcelona, particularly in the Barri Gòtic area just off La Rambla. Try calamares a la Romana (deep-fried calamari), patatas bravas (fried potatoes), chipirones (baby squid) and albóndigas (meatballs). Wash it all down with a glass of Sangria – Spain’s traditional fruity wine punch. Music to your ears Catch some live music at Razzmatazz, Apolo, Sidecar or Bikini. For something classical, try the Gran Teatre del Liceu. If you’re not brave enough to take flamenco lessons then at least check out the traditional dance as a spectator. There are numerous Flamenco bars in Barcelona. El Tablao de Carmen is popular but you won’t be the only tourist. Park life Hungover? Have a walk in the beautiful Teatre Grec gardens around the impressive Fundació Joan Miró museum, then go inside to goggle at a huge collection of paintings and sculptures by the Spanish surrealist and other artists. If you’re feeling more hearty, climb Montjuïic, just outside the town, for amazing views of the sea. Shopathon For interesting one-offs, head to the Barri Gòtic where young designers have their boutiques, and you might find a treasure. El Raval is also good for independent shops. If you’re after Zara or Mango
High life: Montjuic mountain discounts, however, then get yourself to Plaça Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia or Diagonal. The cava trail If you feel as though you’ve ticked off the sights of Barcelona, take a trip to nearby Montserrat, the monastery-peaked mountain that towers over Catalonia. The region is famous for its wine and champagne and there are a number of tours you can book from the city, thus avoiding having to drive or stay sober. Take part in a tasting session at the Freixenet or Codorniu winery and get happy. ❚ TNTMAGAZINE.COM
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